Renowned Hyderabad-based neurosurgeon Dr Suhail Anjum has been recognised by the Indian Book of World Records for successfully performing an exceptionally complex and high-risk cervical spine surgery using a medical approach never attempted anywhere in the world.
Officials from the Indian Book of World Records formally documented the achievement and conferred a special citation on Dr Anjum. He is associated with Glenfield Mallreddy Brain and Heart Hospital on Chapel Road in Hyderabad.
According to reports, the surgery involved a groundbreaking strategy in both surgical execution and anaesthesia management. Instead of conventional anaesthesia, hypobaric drugs were administered through a continuous thoracic subarachnoid block an unconventional method adopted due to the severe risks posed by standard procedures. This innovative approach enabled the surgery to be completed successfully without endangering the patient’s life.
A felicitation programme was organised at Glenfield Hospital to mark the achievement. Representatives of the Indian Book of World Records, Dr Pawani and Dr Vivekananda, were present at the event, which was presided over by senior radiologist Dr MA Mateen. Medical Director Dr Azhar Ansari congratulated Dr Anjum on behalf of the hospital management, while Director Younus Ansari welcomed the gathering.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Anjum highlighted the extraordinary challenges of the case. The patient, aged over 65, had multiple serious comorbidities, including a previous bypass surgery, kidney disease, thyroid disorders and other complications. A tumour in the cervical spine had caused repeated episodes of paralysis in both the upper and lower limbs.
Despite the risks, Dr Anjum successfully carried out the procedure using a novel technique that is unique on a global scale. The case report has since been published in an American medical journal, while the Indian Book of World Records has officially recognised the achievement and awarded a citation.
